A Pioneer in Public Space

DTLA - Lawrence Halprin might not be a household name, but his work has been seen and enjoyed by millions of people in Downtown Los Angeles over the decades. The landscape architect designed the Bunker Hill Steps across from the Central Library, next to U.S. Bank Tower. He also created the design for one of Downtown’s few green spaces, Grand Hope Park, next to the FIDM campus.

So it is only fitting that the late Halprin is being honored in a Downtown museum. Last month, the A+D Museum in the Arts District opened the exhibit The Landscape Architecture of Lawrence Halprin. The retrospective and celebration of his work — which included parks and public spaces around the world — continues through Dec. 31.

The Washington, D.C.-based Cultural Landscape Foundation, a nonprofit focused on researching landscapes and landscape architecture, curated the touring showcase of Halprin’s life. It originated last year in Washington.